Lead acid battery is a common type of battery, also known as Lead–acid battery or lead acid battery. It uses lead and sulfuric acid as the main chemical reaction materials, and converts Chemical energy into electrical energy through chemical reaction. What are the characteristics of lead-acid batteries? How does it work and what should we pay attention to when using lead-acid batteries?

Advantages of lead-acid battery

1. Low cost: Compared to other types of batteries, the manufacturing cost of lead-acid batteries is relatively low, making them more cost-effective.

• Mature and stable: Lead acid batteries are a mature technology widely used in the market. Its performance is stable and reliable, and it performs well under various environmental conditions.

• High discharge capacity: Lead acid batteries can provide high discharge current and are suitable for applications with high power requirements, such as automotive starting and deep cycle applications.

• Good cycle life: Lead acid batteries have a good cycle life and can undergo multiple charging and discharging cycles, suitable for long-term use and frequent charging and discharging application scenarios.

• High safety: Compared to other battery types, lead-acid batteries are relatively safer. They are less prone to explosions or fires, and have a relatively high tolerance for high temperatures and overcharging.

Disadvantages and shortcomings of lead-acid battery

Although lead-acid batteries have these advantages, they also have some drawbacks, such as large weight, large volume, and fast self-discharging speed. When selecting battery types, evaluation and selection should be based on specific application needs and conditions.

1. Large weight and volume: Lead acid batteries are relatively bulky and have a large size, which limits their application in certain scenarios, especially for devices with high requirements for lightweight and miniaturization.

• Faster self-discharge speed: Lead acid batteries have a faster self-discharge speed during their unused period, which means they will lose stored charges quickly and require frequent charging to maintain performance.

• Lower energy density: Compared to some modern chemical batteries, lead-acid batteries have a lower energy density, which means they store relatively less energy per unit weight or volume. This limits its applicability in some high energy demand scenarios.

• Performance is affected by temperature: Lead acid batteries perform poorly at extreme temperatures, especially at low temperatures where their capacity and discharge capacity significantly decrease.

• Regular maintenance is required: Lead acid batteries require regular maintenance, including liquid level checks, cleaning terminals, and adding water to ensure their long-term stable performance.

These drawbacks make lead-acid batteries not the best choice for certain specific applications, especially in scenarios with high requirements for lightweight, high energy density, and long-term use. With the advancement of technology, other types of batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries, have gradually replaced lead-acid batteries in some fields. However, lead-acid batteries are still very popular in many countries due to their significant cost advantages.

How does lead-acid batteries work

Lead acid batteries are a type of chemically reactive battery that operates based on the electrochemical reaction between lead and sulfuric acid to store and release electrical energy.

A typical lead-acid battery consists of the following main components:

1. Positive pole (positive plate): It is made of lead (Pb) and coated with oxide layer, such as Lead dioxide (PbO2).

• Negative electrode (negative plate): It is also made of lead (Pb) and coated with metallic lead (Pb) on the surface.

• Electrolyte: Usually a dilute sulfuric acid solution (H2SO4), it plays a role in conducting electricity and ion transport in batteries.

• Separation membrane: located between the positive and negative electrodes, used to prevent short circuits and allow ions to pass through.

When a lead-acid battery is connected to the circuit and charged, the following reactions will occur inside the battery:

The PbO2 on the positive electrode combines with the H+ions in the electrolyte to form PbSO4 and H2O. Meanwhile, the lead (Pb) on the negative electrode will be converted into PbSO4 and release electrons:

Positive electrode reaction: PbO2+H++SO4 ^ 2->PbSO4+H2O+2e^-

Negative reaction: Pb+SO4 ^ 2->PbSO4+2e^-

These reactions result in the potential difference between the positive and negative electrodes, which is the voltage of the battery. When the external circuit is connected to the battery, electrons will flow from the negative electrode to the positive electrode through the external circuit, completing the release of electrical energy.

In the process of discharge, the active substances of positive and negative electrodes are gradually transformed into Lead(II) sulfate (PbSO4). When the battery runs out, the chemical reaction stops and no longer provides electrical energy. At this point, if it is necessary to continue using the battery, it can be charged through an external power source to reverse the reaction and regenerate the active substance to store electrical energy.

In general, the working principle of lead-acid battery is to generate potential difference between positive electrode and negative electrode through Redox between lead and sulfuric acid, and convert Chemical energy into electrical energy.

Classification of lead-acid batteries

Lead acid batteries can be divided into the following main types based on their structure and usage:

1. Battery (energy storage battery): Battery is the most common type of lead-acid battery. They are designed for long-term storage and release of electrical energy. Batteries typically have high capacity and can undergo multiple charging and discharging cycles.
2. Starting battery (automotive battery): Starting battery is also a common type of lead-acid battery, widely used in vehicles such as automobiles and motorcycles. These batteries have a high starting current, used to start the engine and provide electricity to the vehicle's electrical system.
3. Deep cycle batteries: Deep cycle batteries are lead-acid batteries specifically designed for frequent charging and discharging applications. They typically have higher cycle life and better durability, and are suitable for scenarios such as emergency power supplies, solar systems, golf carts, etc. that require frequent deep discharge.
4. Valve regulated sealed lead-acid battery (VRLA battery): VRLA battery, also known as sealed lead-acid battery, is a maintenance-free lead-acid battery. They adopt a special sealing structure and valve control technology, which can prevent electrolyte leakage and do not require additional water. VRLA batteries are widely used in fields that require reliable backup power, such as UPS (uninterruptible power supply system), communication equipment, and security systems.

These are the main types of lead-acid batteries, each with different characteristics and applicability. Based on specific usage needs, selecting the appropriate type of lead-acid battery can better meet the requirements of practical applications.

Transportation knowledge of lead-acid batteries

When transporting lead-acid batteries, the following precautions should be taken:

1. Packaging protection: Place lead-acid batteries in sturdy packaging boxes or containers to ensure they are stable and not moving, and use suitable fillers and cushioning materials to prevent collisions and vibrations.

• Preventing short circuits: Ensure that there is no direct contact or connection between battery terminals, which can be insulated and isolated by using insulation caps or straps.

• Prevent leakage: Check if the battery casing is intact and ensure that the valve or sealing device is working properly. If there is damage or leakage, corresponding measures should be taken to deal with it and properly sealed to prevent acid leakage.

• Avoid high-temperature environments: Lead acid batteries should avoid prolonged exposure to high-temperature environments, as high temperatures may cause chemical reactions and pressure increases inside the battery.

• Classification and identification: According to relevant regulations, for the transportation of lead-acid batteries, it is necessary to mark them according to the corresponding hazardous material classification and identification, and fill in necessary transportation documents and documents.

• Comply with transportation regulations: When transporting lead-acid batteries, international and domestic transportation regulations and standards must be followed to ensure compliance and safety. This includes applicable United Nations hazardous material classification and labeling regulations, as well as relevant regulatory requirements of various countries and regions.

Please note that in terms of detailed guidance and specific requirements for specific situations, it is recommended to consult professional logistics or transportation agencies to ensure that the transportation of lead-acid batteries is carried out in the correct way to ensure safety and comply with regulatory requirements.

How to use lead-acid batteries?

When using lead-acid batteries, the following precautions should be taken:

1. Safe operation: When using lead-acid batteries, it is necessary to follow relevant safety operating procedures to ensure the safety of oneself and others. Avoid battery damage, leakage, or short circuits, and prevent contact with ignition sources.

• Appropriate environment: Place lead-acid batteries in a well ventilated, dry, and cool environment. Avoid exposure to high temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.

• Charging method: Use the correct charger and a charging method that meets the battery specifications for charging. Do not overcharge or charge quickly to avoid battery damage or safety issues.

• Correct connection: When connecting lead-acid batteries, ensure that the positive and negative electrodes are correctly matched and firmly connected. Incorrect connections may cause battery damage or dangerous situations to occur.

• Prevent deep discharge: Avoid completely discharging lead-acid batteries, as excessive discharge can damage the performance and lifespan of the battery. Charge in a timely manner to maintain the appropriate battery level.

• Regular maintenance: According to the battery manual or manufacturer's recommendations, conduct regular battery maintenance and inspection. Clean the surface of the battery and check for any damage, leakage, etc.

• Disposal: Lead acid batteries belong to special waste and cannot be discarded arbitrarily. Waste batteries should be handed over to designated recycling points for proper disposal in accordance with local regulations and environmental requirements.

Please note that when using lead-acid batteries, specific product instructions and relevant safety operation guidelines should be followed to ensure safe and effective use of the battery.

Maintenance of lead-acid battery

The above describes so much knowledge about lead-acid batteries. So, how do we maintain and maintain our lead-acid batteries to improve their efficiency and lifespan when using them?

1. Check battery electrolyte level: Regularly check the electrolyte level of lead-acid batteries. Ensure that the liquid level in the battery always covers the electrode plate, and if necessary, replenish with distilled water. But please be careful not to add too much water to overflow.

• Clean battery terminals: Regularly clean the terminals and connectors of the battery. Use a mild alkaline solution (such as soda water) and a brush to gently clean the oxide or corrosion on the battery terminals, and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Ensure that the terminals are dry before reconnecting.

• Prevent over discharge: Avoid completely discharging lead-acid batteries as this can have a negative impact on battery life. Start charging when the battery power consumption reaches a certain level, to avoid leaving the battery in an uncharged state for a long time.

• Correct charging: Use an appropriate charger to charge, ensuring the correct voltage and charging mode are used. Follow the instructions and recommendations of the charger manufacturer to avoid overcharging or rapid charging.

• Avoid high temperature environments: Lead acid batteries are sensitive to high temperatures, so exposure to high temperatures should be avoided. High temperatures can accelerate battery self discharge and corrosion, reducing battery life.

• Regular maintenance and charging: If lead-acid batteries are not used for a long time, they may discharge themselves and lose power. To prevent this situation, regularly charge the battery to maintain a fully charged state.

• Attention to safety: When handling lead-acid batteries, please wear appropriate protective gloves and glasses to prevent contact with electrolyte or accidental splashing. Follow the safety guidelines provided by the battery manufacturer for operation.

Please note that the above are only general recommendations, and the specific maintenance methods may vary depending on the battery type and manufacturer. It is recommended to refer to and follow the instructions, recommendations, and maintenance manuals provided by relevant battery manufacturers.